That might sound like no big deal, but after 2023’s “The Marvels,” this spring’s fourth “Captain America” movie and “Thunderbolts*” all underperformed by Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) standards, the new “Fantastic Four” may offer broader audience appeal by not pulling from other franchises.

First Steps” is the third Marvel movie to hit theaters this year, but it packs way more hidden references and nods than “Captain America: Brave New World” or “Thunderbolts.” It’s not on the same level of Easter eggs as last year’s “Deadpool and Wolverine,

First Steps," the core Four superheroes are a bit of a bore, and in a way that works to the advantage of this grounded tale of heroism and sacrifice, which is scaled properly for what it is.It's not a flashy or over-the-top special effects extravaganza,

First Steps presents an faithful, entertaining, and compelling version of the story Rise of the Silver Surfer failed to adapt.

As the filmmaker’s three-year journey wound down on the project, he realized a key moment was missing, and managed to shoot it within a few months of the film's opening.

This iteration of the Fantastic Four has a standalone adventure without all the burden of the MCU's history and cast of characters.

“Fantastic Four” has a “distinct retro-futuristic aesthetic and family-focused themes,” according to Rotten Tomatoes. With a “certified fresh” critics score of 89% on Rotten Tomatoes, reactions to “Fantastic Four” seem largely positive — even if they sometimes come with qualifications.